Homeless Services & Prevention Programs

Western Dairyland provides long-term housing and ongoing support for over 30 chronically-homeless individuals and families in the Eau Claire area. Using the Housing First approach, we prioritize providing permanent housing to people experiencing homelessness, thus ending their homelessness and serving as a platform from which they can pursue personal goals and improve their quality of life.

A case manager assesses clients, and those deemed most vulnerable are placed directly into apartments. These apartments are not all in one location but are spread throughout the community to help clients reintegrate more quickly. Once housing is provided, a case manager works with the clients in mental and physical health, substance abuse, education, and employment.

In comparison, other homeless programs have moved clients through different levels of housing - temporary shelters, followed by short-term transitional units, and then subsidized housing.

This program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) to provide long-term housing for 30+ individuals and/or families. Community members and local businesses are donating furniture, housewares, and cleaning supplies for the apartments.